Hi there, my dear followers!

Today, we want to share an exciting chapter of our nomadic journey, that we called Barden, “Keipen and the failure”. A hike which led us to Senja Island, Norway, where we embarked on a memorable hiking experience. As some of you might already know, Kaddy (@the.vantastic.two), and I have temporarily taken shelter in Fredda, Kaddy’s trusty rig, while Knotten undergoes repairs in Bardufoss at Lians Caravan & Fritid. This limits our travel options, but we found solace in Senja, a captivating island renowned for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. With a hiking trail in mind, we set out to explore Selga, only to discover a new route that would lead us to unforgettable vistas.

As we ascend
As we ascend toward Barden at Senja.
More on the trail toward first rest stop.
More on the trail toward the first rest stop. The view further into the valley.

Barden: The Initial Ascent

Armed with enthusiasm and the necessary gear, including camera equipment and hiking essentials, we set off on our adventure. The trail began with a steep and slightly marshy incline. Fortunately, recent warm and dry weather spared us from trudging through muddy paths. Our dogs, full of excitement, accompanied us, guiding us left and right with their curious sniffing. Among them, Ludde took the lead, occasionally pulling us in all directions. Slowly but steadily, we made our way to the top of the initial ascent, where we expected a T-junction, according to our maps.

The view towards the north.
At the rest stop we took in the scenery. The view towards the north.
Kaddy and Peachy.
Kaddy and Peachy were in good spirits as we reached the first rest stop.
Kaddy and Peachy walking on.
After figuring out that our first choice was not the best path forward we changed destination. Kaddy and Peachy walk toward the next rest stop.
Ludde is ready.
Ludde is ready to hit the trail.

Keipen: A Change of Plans

Upon reaching the top, we realized that our trail to Barden might be too challenging for our skill levels. Both Kaddy and I, with no mountaineering experience, decided it would be best to reevaluate our options. Studying the map, we spotted another peak called Keipen, which seemed more manageable and promised a rewarding view. Feeling optimistic, we chose this alternate path.

Toward Keipen.
Our new destination, Keipen. From here the trail looks doable.
The landscape along the trail.
The surrounds don't hold back when it comes to stunning landscapes.

An Unexpected Challenge

Initially, the trail to Keipen seemed gentle, with a moderate incline that didn’t require any climbing equipment. However, as we ascended higher, we quickly realized our miscalculation. The trail narrowed, becoming steeper with each step. Determined to press on, we continued, mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery, particularly the magnificent Bretinden. Nonetheless, it became apparent that the trail’s difficulty surpassed our expectations, and we faced a tough decision.

Towards Bretind.
The camera setup to shoot some images of Bretind.
Ready to shoot Bretind
The view I'm trying to capture.
The gang
The gang resting while I'm trying to shoot some frames.
Hiking coffee
Hiking coffee in a wooden hiking cup. Coffee is aqua vitae on hikes.
Kaddy and the dogs
Kaddy and the dogs enjoying our rest stop.
Ludde catching a breather.
Ludde catching a breather so he has more energy for the next part of the hike.
Peachy catching a breather
Peachy relaxing before the next ascent begins.
The Photographer
Of course, one need to have a picture of the photographer with the subject in the background.

Bretind

Some picture of Bretind. 

Bretind
Bretind

Accepting "Failure" and Embracing Serendipity

Initially, the trail to Keipen seemed gentle, with a moderate incline that didn’t require any climbing equipment. However, as we ascended higher, we quickly realized our miscalculation. The trail narrowed, becoming steeper with each step. Determined to press on, we continued, mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery, particularly the magnificent Bretinden. Nonetheless, it became apparent that the trail’s difficulty surpassed our expectations, and we faced a tough decision.

Defeated
Finally feeling defeated with no way to continue. No there was only the way back.

Acknowledging our limitations, we decided to turn back at a point where the backpacks hindered our progress. Carefully, I carried my backpack by hand to secure better footing while Kaddy waited with our dogs. Afterwards, we repeated the process to help Kaddy descend safely. Although our primary goal seemed unattainable, we didn’t feel defeated. Instead, we found a picturesque spot to rest, where we enjoyed a delicious meal of REAL Turmat prepped on our trusty Fire Maple stove before we descended to Fredda.

Smile for a defeat
Even though we were "defeated" in our goal of reaching Keipen, we still had the smile. Not all defeats are failures.
Dinner with a view
After being defeated it tasted really good with some dinner. Especially when you have proper MREs that taste and are not making starvation a viable option.
A smile for dinner
Kaddy in good spirit enjoying her REAL Turmat. I think she went for Chicken Tikka Masala.
Kaddy and the kids
Kaddy and kids posing for a frame.
Well deserved desert
What better end after an ordeal and a dinner than enjoying a good cup of hot chocolate as one take in the view.
Toffa and Knotten
Toffa and Knotten

Toffa Berg is a vanlifer and landscape photographer based in Norway. Travelling in a Laika X595R mobile home named Knotten, Toffa explores and documents the natural beauty of Norway, with a particular focus on woodlands, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, coastlines, and mountain landscapes. Avoiding cities, he seeks out quieter, less-populated areas to capture his imagery.

When not on the road, Toffa returns to Stavanger, his base for rest and preparation. Accompanied by his miniature schnauzer, Ludde, he shares his photography and experiences on the Toffa and Knotten website.

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